The lake on the Tiber among the hills
Between Todi and Orvieto, in the green valley of the Tiber, Lake Corbara is an artificial lake created in 1963 by the construction of a dam on the river for the production of hydroelectric power. About ten kilometres long and narrow, it winds like a river among wooded hills and vineyards, in a quiet, little-known landscape, part of the Parco Fluviale del Tevere, the Tiber River Park, a protected area that also includes the spectacular Gola del Forello, a deep gorge where the Tiber flows between vertical limestone walls covered with holm oaks, and the Lake of Alviano, an important wetland for birds.
The banks of the lake are dotted with medieval villages and castles, such as Baschi, Civitella del Lago, perched on a hill with a splendid view over the water, which has earned it the name of "balcony of the lake", and Corbara, with its castle that gives its name to the lake. The hills around produce the wines of the Lago di Corbara DOC, red and white, and the white Orvieto Classico, and many wineries and farmhouses offer tastings and accommodation. The area is ideal for cycling, canoeing and hiking, along the paths of the park, which follow the river and the ancient roads, and for birdwatching. The lake is a short drive from the most famous destinations of the area, Orvieto, Todi and, a little further away, Civita di Bagnoregio, the "dying town" in Lazio, but it remains a peaceful place, far from the crowds.
Tip: enjoy the view of the lake from Civitella del Lago; the Gola del Forello can be explored by canoe with local guides.
Where it is
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